Arsenal Transfer Rumours: Arsene Wenger Tracking Swiss Star Xherdan Shaqiri

Insidefutbol.com link Arsenal with a move for promising 19-year-old FC Basel prospect Xherdan Shaqiri.  The reports suggests that the Gunners could turn their attentions to Shaqiri after being priced out of a move for exciting Lille forward Eden Hazard.

Arsene Wenger could pursue Shaqiri as a replacement for the departed Samir Nasri.  Shaqiri possesses similar attributes to Nasri.

The young Swiss prodigy is blessed with nifty footwork and impeccable close control.  He has a thunderous shot and a deceptively quick turn, making him a threat to score from anywhere in and around the box.

Shaqiri's diminutive and stocky frame belies his cultured touch and natural creative instincts.  His direct style would offer Arsenal a different threat from midfield.

Shaqiri's dazzling ball skills and slaloming running style would combine well with Theo Walcott's pace and the trickery of Gervinho.

Shaqiri has not looked out of his depth when has performed for his national side and appears a player primed for the highest level.  He was particularly impressive during the recent European Under-21 Championships.

He would have the opportunity to join up with international compatriot Johan Djourou at Emirates Stadium.

Aside from Gervinho, Arsenal lack a player with the skill to regularly weave past defenders and supply their bevy of talented central attacking players.

Andrey Arshavin should be that player, but the unpredictable Russian does not deliver on a consistent basis.

Adding Shaqiri would provide a new dimension to Arsenal's style of play, allowing them to break down compact defenses that simply rely on crowding compact areas and cutting off Arsenal's short passes.

Shaqiri has the youth and technique that are the hallmarks of a typical Wenger acquisition.  He would be a smart, under-the-radar signing who would prove that Wenger can still unearth quality outside of the usual suspects in the transfer market.

Along with the additions of Carl Jenkinson, Ryo Miyaichi, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Joel Campbell, Shaqiri would help form the basis of a new and exciting nucleus of young players at Arsenal.